Do Blue Tits check the nest box for size? (1 Viewer)

[TerryHeff]

Hi - I have 2 camera boxes in the garden. I've noticed on a few occasions when Blue Tits are checking out the box, they have spread their wings from corner to corner, in both directions and then, seemingly rejecting the box. It looks like they are checking the box for size. Is this behaviour common to Blue Tits? I've witnessed this 3 times in the last few days and now I'm wondering if my boxes too small. I'm new to these camera boxes so would appreciate some expert advice - thanks

Terry

 

[KC Foggin]

Unfortunately, I have no idea on this never having had a camera nest box.

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[Kits]

Welcome to Birdforum. I hope you enjoy your visits.

I expect they are still checking out the boxes. We’ve currently got two blue tits roosting overnight in our box which has a camera. I see blue tits going in and out of our other box, but that doesn’t have a camera.

 

[Janar]

I don't know if the blue tit measures the nest box, but I know the nest box must be the right size for each bird species. Here is a great article for chickadees nesting habits and more

Chickadee bird house plans and nesting habits - birdhouseplan.com

Here you will find best chickadee bird house plans and instructions on how to assemble it and where to place it.

birdhouseplan.com

Alsow good article about birdhouse sizes.

What Size Hole For Birdhouse Should I Drill - birdhouseplan.com

Birdhouse hole size chart show you exactly what size hole to drill. Choose right birdhouse entrance hole size and attract bird what you like.

birdhouseplan.com

 

[TerryHeff]

Thanks to all for replies and to Janar for the links. One of my boxes has now been claimed and a pair of Blue Tits are slowly gathering nesting material. My wife can't contain her excitement. The BTs timing was perfect as the box was a birthday prezzy for my wife on the 25th. Thanks again

 

[Prestwich Nest Box]

Hi - I have 2 camera boxes in the garden. I've noticed on a few occasions when Blue Tits are checking out the box, they have spread their wings from corner to corner, in both directions and then, seemingly rejecting the box. It looks like they are checking the box for size. Is this behaviour common to Blue Tits? I've witnessed this 3 times in the last few days and now I'm wondering if my boxes too small. I'm new to these camera boxes so would appreciate some expert advice - thanks

Terry

when you say they are spreading the wing are they doing a little shuffle on their belly? if so thet means they are interested in the box.

 

[TerryHeff]

Thanks for your reply

Yes, my blue tits did a similar thing, as in the video. Well, my theory has been blown apart as the nest is almost complete. Getting regular delivery of materials - so I think they are serious

 

[adyH]

Hello to all at bird forum. this is my 2nd post - I am getting quite concerned as there is no interest whatsoever around the box. Previously I had an old box in the same spot and had two successful seasons! This is the first time I have had a box withcamera complete with led light. I have added a metal cover with the correct blue tit size hole As this was the bird used the old for the last two years. Something is going in the box as there s “poo” and the odd feather in the bottom. Still unable to establish who or what is using it…???? should I be seeing some action around the box by now.??

 

[Prestwich Nest Box]

Hello to all at bird forum. this is my 2nd post - I am getting quite concerned as there is no interest whatsoever around the box. Previously I had an old box in the same spot and had two successful seasons! This is the first time I have had a box withcamera complete with led light. I have added a metal cover with the correct blue tit size hole As this was the bird used the old for the last two years. Something is going in the box as there s “poo” and the odd feather in the bottom. Still unable to establish who or what is using it…???? should I be seeing some action around the box by now.??

There could be a number of factors why there is no serious action in the box. 1, the size of the box might not be adequate for breeding in. 2, what ever bird is roosting in it might not of found a mate.